LCROSS Impact Target Crater Changed

NASA's Lunar Crater Observation and Sensing Satellite mission (LCROSS) based on new analysis of available lunar data, has shifted the target crater from Cabeus A to Cabeus (proper), according to a NASA Ames press release.

The new impact target decision was prompted by the current best understanding of hydrogen concentrations in the Cabeus region, including cross-correlation between the latest LRO results and LP data sets and after consultation with scientific community, including impact experts, ground and space based observers, and observations from Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO), Lunar Prospector (LP), Chandrayaan-1 and JAXA's Kaguya spacecraft.

Simualtion models show a small valley in an otherwise tall Cabeus perimeter ridge, which will allow for sunlight to illuminate the ejecta cloud on Oct. 9, and much sooner than previously estimated for Cabeus. While the ejecta does have to fly to higher elevations to be observed by Earth assets, a shadow cast by a large hill along the Cabeus ridge, provides an excellent, high-contrast, back drop for ejecta and vapor measurements.

NASA and the Newseum in Washington, D.C. have partnered to host a complimentary, public event to celebrate the lunar impact on Friday, October 9 at 555 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC beginning at 7AM with doors opening at 6:30 AM. Light refreshments will be served. This event is open to the general public free of charge. NASA’s Deputy Administrator, Lori Garver, the media, congressional and industry stakeholders will assemble to view live coverage of the LCROSS impact on the Newseum’s multi-story video screen.